The Yellow Jackets will depart Thursday morning at 11:30 AM for Alva, Oklahoma to take on Northwestern Oklahoma State University who is fresh off their victory over NCAA II Colorado State University at Pueblo 32-28. This will be the second meeting between the Raiders and the Yellow Jackets. In 2008, the Rangers defeated BHSU 10-7 at Lyle Hare Stadium in a very close game throughout. “Traditionally Northwestern is a top team in the Nation, last year they made it to the second round of the NAIA Playoffs. In order for us to have success we will need to learn from our mistakes from the previous week and play up to our capabilities,” said Head Coach Jay Long.

Keys to the Game Offensively:

The Yellow Jackets will look to capitalize opportunities in the red zone and establish the running game early. Last week the Yellow Jackets rushed for over 200 yards with two freshman running backs combining for 99 and 94 yards respectively. The Yellow Jacket passing attack will need to execute for a whole game. “Last week we had over 400 yards of total offense and 88 downs. It was frustrating to come away with only 10 points. This week our offense is facing a very fast Raider defense and we need to focus on getting the ball into the end zone,” added Coach Long.

Keys to the Game Defensively:

Defensively the Yellow Jackets will have to stop a shotgun/option offense attack which is led by a very athletic freshman Kyle Jech. “Offensively Northwestern Oklahoma runs a very solid offense that keeps you on your toes for an entire game. They are extremely athletic and we will need to be disciplined in our assignments,” stated Coach Long. Last week the defensive line of the Yellow Jackets was very solid and they will need the same effort this week.

The Yellow Jackets will enter the contest 0-1 while the Rangers of Northwestern Oklahoma are 1-0. Kickoff is set for 1 PM CST and can be listened to through KDSJ 980 AM.